37 Day New Zealand, Australia & Fiji

Discover the South Pacific in Style: An extraordinary 5-week luxury road trip
img
Geothermal Rotorua
Photo by Geoff Byron on Unsplash
Overnight cruise on Doubtful Sound
Great Barrier Reef Snorkel
aerial photo of Sydney harbour
Blue Mountains
Sunrise at Uluru
Tokoriki Island
OVERVIEW
ITINERARY
START PLANNING

37 Day New Zealand, Australia & Fiji

You have five weeks to savour the very best of New Zealand, Australia and Fiji on this South Pacific nations -spanning luxury road trip. This tour can be adapted to suit your requirements - we can adjust how much self-drive or private driver you prefer, as well as spectacular train journeys and short domestic flights to move you around efficiently.

Duration: 37 Day

Starts: Auckland, NZ

Finishes: Nadi, Fiji

Drive Journey
  • Dedicated Travel Designer
  • Full In-Country Support
  • Specialist Guides on all selected experiences
  • Full Vehicle Selection
  • Domestic Flights and Transfers
  • Helicopter Transfer to Bay of Many Coves
Your Experiences:
  1. Exclusive Wine Tour Waiheke Island
  2. Tū Te Rā – Maori Summer Harvest Feast
  3. Full Day Eco Thermal Tour
  4. Tongariro Crossing
  5. Tranz Alpine Rail Journey
  6. Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight – Fox & Franz
  7. Doubtful Sound Overnight Cruise
  8. 18 Holes Jacks Point
  9. Mou Waho Island Cruise and Nature Walk
  10. Tasman Glacier Boat Trip
  11. Low Isles Cruise and Snorkel Great Barrier Reef
  12. Sydney Darling Harbour Dinner Cruise
  13. Blue Mountains Deluxe Eco Tour
  14. Uluru Desert Awakenings
Your Locations:
  1. Auckland
  2. Waiheke Island
  3. Rotorua
  4. Turangi
  5. Wellington
  6. The Marlborough Sounds
  7. Nelson
  8. Kaikoura
  9. Christchurch
  10. Franz Josef
  11. Queenstown
  12. Te Anau
  13. Doubtful Sound
  14. Wanaka
  15. Mount Cook National Park
  16. Cairns
  17. Port Douglas
  18. Sydney
  19. Blue Mountains
  20. Uluru / Yulara
  21. Tokoriki, Mamanuca Islands
VIEW ITINERARY

Day by day tour itinerary

Expand all
DAY 1
Welcome to Auckland

Arrive in New Zealand’s largest city, prettily perched on picturesque Auckland Harbour. You’ll be met on arrival and transferred to your hotel for your first night in New Zealand. As the name belies, ‘The City of Sails’ – as Auckland is fondly known – is a stunning sea side city. The city centre surrounds a large harbour that bustles with life, both on water and on land. In the Auckland region, the North Island is geographically narrow and the city straddles a slim piece of land with coastline facing both the Pacific Ocean, and, on the wild West Coast, the Tasman Sea. Boutique shopping, pulsing, Pacific-inspired markets and a passionate cafe culture make this city a charming place to visit.

Auckland city from the water
DAY 2
Ferry to Waiheke Island

This Gulf Island is much loved destination for exceptional food and wine experiences, in a stunning coastal location

Board a ferry to beautiful Waiheke Island, located in the Hauraki Gulf. On arrival you’ll be met by your hosts and transferred to your accommodation. Spend the next day at leisure exploring Waiheke Island, the second largest island in the Hauraki Gulf and home to a beguiling blend of forests, beaches, vineyards and olive groves. Discover the island’s unspoilt coastline, maybe heading to Cactus Beach, accessible only by kayak, or take a guided nature tour to learn more about the island’s wildlife.

Waiheke ferry seen from above through the flowers of a flax plant.
DAY 3
Wine meets Art - Viewing and Tasting with Lunch

Join a local wine aficionado for exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Waiheke's premier wine producers.

Join a local wine aficionado for exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Waiheke’s premier wine producers…

Since the late 1970s, Waiheke’s benign climate has seen the growth of a flourishing wine industry. A “small is beautiful” philosophy yields low quantities of extremely high-quality fruit, which is made into internationally award-winning wines. At each vineyard, you’ll taste a selection of wines and enjoy an in-depth discussion with the winemaker.

For something a little more tactile, we can arrange a visit to a bronze crafting studio, a cobbler who creates individual pairs of shoes from scratch, a ceramic artist, or a tour of the spectacular sculpture park. As part of your tour, you can opt to break up the day with a scenic walk on one of Waiheke’s secluded beaches.

Waiheke Island Wine
DAY 4
Waiheke Island to Rotorua

Return to Auckland, fly to Rotorua

From Waiheke Island, make your way by ferry back to Auckland where you’ll transfer to the airport for your short flight to Rotorua. On arrival, collect your hire car and drive to your accommodation.

Rotorua is surrounded by steaming lakes, bubbling hot pools and bursting geysers, host to some of the world’s most incredible natural forces. A heartland of Maori culture, the local people have embraced this turbulent land.

This evening experience an authentic Maori Summer Feast Tū Te Rā. This four-hour evening is a feast of knowledge as well as divine seasonal kai (cuisine) within our forest Pā (sanctuary), its tawa trees and crackling bonfires.

Kai horotai (morsels) welcome guests with seasonal favourites that may include crispy pork and candied apple encased in kawakawa leaves, pāua (abalone), pickled pikopiko (native fern frond), smoked fish, ika mata (ceviche) and chilled kawakawa tea.

Within the forest-formed amphitheatre attention shifts to stories relayed through haka, song and drama, before torch light guides manuhiri (guests) to an al fresco dining space with three-course feast.

The famous hāngī shares a table with Māori fusion dishes developed and curated by celebrated Māori chefs, prepared by our own ringawera (hot hands). We serve dinner al fresco on warmer nights and in our wharekai (dining room) if the weather is inclement.

Tamaki Brothers
DAY 5
Full Day Eco Thermal Tour

Visit Wai O Tapu and Waimangu Volcanic Valley

In this tour you will visit Rotorua’s most natural and popular geothermal parks: Wai O Tapu and Waimangu Volcanic Valley. You will see volcanoes, geysers, New Zealand’s largest boiling mud pool mud pools and hot springs. The two parks offer a variety of thermal activity: at Wai O Tapu, the colourful hot springs are the key features along with the famous Lady Knox geyser; at Waimangu Volcanic Valley, you will learn about the history and legends of the great eruption of Mt Tarawera which blew open this now spectacular, bush covered, geothermal park. To bring the story alive, you will visit The Buried Village, which is the site of a former Maori village, destroyed during the Tarawera volcanic eruption.

Wai-o-tapu
DAY 6
Turangi

Stop at Huka Falls enroute to Turangi

Starting from Rotorua, the scenic drive to Turangi is a must-do for nature lovers. Along the way, you’ll pass through the famous Huka Falls, where the Waikato River narrows and rushes through a narrow channel. The turquoise waters and impressive flow make for a stunning sight. Continuing on to Taupo, you can stop for a dip in the natural hot springs or take a stroll along the lakefront. Finally, you’ll arrive in Turangi, a charming town known for its trout fishing and access to Tongariro National Park.

  • img

    2 nights at Turangi Lodge

  • img

    Approximate Distance: 130 km

  • img

    Total Driving Time: 1 hour 40 mins

Huka falls lookout
DAY 7
Guided Tongariro Crossing

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing Guided Walk, New Zealand’s best day one-day walk.

This morning you will have an early start as you meet your guides and have your briefing. The 19km track leads to the saddle between Mt. Ngauruhoe and Mt. Tongariro, revealing a stunning landscape of craters, volcanic rocks, mountain springs, and emerald lakes. During summer, the area showcases a variety of colors and textures from mineral deposits like Sulphur, Aluminium, and Silica. Summer offers a majestic landscape of recent resultant volcanic activity. There is a vast array of colours and textures created from Sulphur, Aluminium, Silica, and many other mineral deposits released from within the Earth’s Crust – this track is very popular but your guides will strive to keep you away from the crowds. Winter, your guides offer an opportunity to trek through a snowy landscape without the summer crowds, providing all necessary training and equipment for an unforgettable alpine experience.

View from the top of the green lake on the Tongariro Crossing
DAY 8
Drive to Wellington

New Zealand's capital city has plenty to offer the travel loving 'Foodie'

Take the Desert Road then follow the coastline to Wellington. Situated at the southern end of the North Island, Wellington, New Zealand, was recently named “the coolest little capital in the world” by Lonely Planet.

Wellington’s inner heart beats with an amazing cultural offering all of its own. As New Zealand’s capital, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the city is all political banter and suits. However, this microcosm of creatives is actually a place where artistry, quirkiness and creative risk taking are celebrated within one of the richest arts environs in the southern hemisphere. Best of all, you can walk anywhere in the inner city in around twenty minutes, tops. On any given night, you’ll find something happening, whether it’s a poetry reading, a new art showing, book launch, gig or interpretive theatre piece.

For foodies, Wellington is a city brimming with colourful eateries, vibrant markets and tasty laneways. World-renowned for excellent coffee and award-winning restaurants, this is one city that has it all.

DAY 9
Head to the beautiful Queen Charlotte Sounds

Helicopter Transfer to Bay of Many Coves

Arrive in style to the Bay of Many Coves – with a scenic helicopter transfer allowing you to view from above the myriad coves that make up ‘the Sounds’. In the heart of the Queen Charlotte Sounds, nestled into the hillside where virgin native bush extends from hilltops to water’s edge you will find the Bay of Many Coves Resort. The Sounds offers tranquility and birdsong like no other part of New Zealand is able –  due to the predator free nature of this area. This property is boat access only – so the only other visitors will be boaties and the few other guests staying at the property, in the luxury of private villas. From here it is possible to hike sections of  the Queen Charlotte Track or to enjoyed the sheltered bays from the water.

View from Apartment over Bay of Many Coves
DAY 10
Free day to explore the tranquil marlborough Sounds

Today whether you are seeking world-class cuisine, breath-taking scenery, adventure, or simply a sense of renewal, you will find it here.

  • Take one of several tracks leading out from the Resort that lead you through 52 hectares of private bush, alive with native birds. Venture from the Bay of Many Coves Resort to the Queen Charlotte Track, or let us arrange a boat pick up from any of the entry and exit points along this magnificent walkway.
  • The Marlborough Sounds is famous for fishing – and if you would like to try than we can arrange a Fishing charter for you within the inner-Sounds (catch and release blue cod) or an extreme outer-Sounds fishing expedition.
Fishing Charter will pick you up from the jetty at Bay of Many Coves Resort
DAY 11
Water taxi to Picton, Scenic Train to Christchurch

Return to Picton intime to board the Scenic Coastal Pacific Train to Christchurch

  • img

    1 night at The George

  • img

    Approximate Distance: 336 km

  • img

    Total Driving Time: 5 hours

DAY 12
Tranz Alpine Rail Journey onto Franz Josef Glacier

Traverse the Main Divide and take a drive alongside a rainforest to Glacier Country

Today travel to Greymouth via the TranzAlpine, one of the world’s great train journeys covering 223 kilometres (139 miles) one-way, taking just under 5 hours. You’ll traverse the majestic Canterbury Plains, to the backdrop of the mighty Southern Alps – the journey of a lifetime.

When the ancient forests and mountain passes give way to coastal views, you’ll arrive at Greymouth – and after a couple of hours drive you’ll soon be nearing glacier country. Nestled in a rainforest clearing, Franz Josef Glacier lies at the heart of the Westland National Park. Welcome to one of the most diverse and beautiful areas of New Zealand.

 

Take the Tranz Alpine train and enjoy the close up scenery of the Southern Alps and braided rivers.
DAY 13
Twin Glacier Helicopter Flight – Fox & Franz

Exploring these majestic rivers of frozen ice is a must. Located near the Main Divide the views of the Southern Alps are second to none.

Fly over Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier on a spectacular helicopter tour that includes a landing right on the snow. Seeing both glaciers on a single helicopter flight offers an incredible perspective and understanding of New Zealand’s massive ice sheets, and you touch down on one of the glaciers to snap up-close photographs of the frozen terrain.

  • Spectacular aerial views of Franz Josef Glacier and Fox Glacier
  • The live pilot commentary points out landmarks and unique features below
  • Walkout onto the snow after an exciting glacier landing
  • Bring home photographs of the glaciers and the stunning Southern Alps
DAY 14
Travel over the Haast Pass to Queenstown

The alpine resort of Queenstown is exciting, sophisticated, and fantastically scenic.

Be transported to the South Island’s most iconic resort town of Queenstown today on one of New Zealand’s most breathtaking scenic drives. The views are impressive all the way, and once over the Haast Pass they change dramatically. There’s beauty around every bend, with breathtaking lakes and rivers and views of mountain peaks rising epically into the skyline.

  • img

    3 nights at Azur Lodge

  • img

    Approximate Distance: 351 km

  • img

    Total Driving Time: 5 hours

Blue Pools Mt Aspiring National Park
DAY 15
Free Day to Relax

Enjoy acquainting yourself with the Queenstown District today.

Today  take it all in with  one of many optional wine tasting tours and scenic lakeside rambles, or splash out on an optional Picnic on a Peak helicopter flight, including a leisurely champagne luncheon in the wilderness. Recently added to the tasty tours on offer is a Gin Tasting by Helicopter. Join this world’s first tour, showcasing world class gins, unique tour and tasting experiences and a 15 minute scenic helicopter flight. Today is for enjoying and exploring or relaxing at Azur Lodge.

Queenstown and Steamer
DAY 16
Golf at Jacks Point

18 Holes at International Course overlooking the lake

Today indulge in the ultimate golfing experience at Jacks Point in Queenstown. Navigate 18 magnificent holes amidst breathtaking landscapes, with every swing a thrill of precision and beauty. Prepare for a golfing journey that combines challenge, serenity, and unforgettable views.

Jacks Point Golf Course in Queenstown
DAY 17
Doubtful Sound

Overnight Doubtful Sound Cruise

Embark on an enchanting overnight cruise at Doubtful Sound, where nature’s majesty unfolds at every turn. Drift through serene waters, surrounded by towering cliffs and misty waterfalls. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this untouched wilderness, as you spot dolphins, penguins, and seals. With comfortable accommodations and gourmet cuisine, this cruise promises an unforgettable experience beneath starlit skies.

Fiordland Navigator
DAY 18
Te Anau - Wanaka

Disembark and travel to Wanaka

Disembark from the enchanting overnight cruise at Doubtful Sound and continue your journey with a scenic drive to the mesmerizing Lake Wanaka. Traverse winding roads, surrounded by majestic peaks and verdant forests. As you approach the shores of Lake Wanaka, be mesmerized by its pristine waters and picturesque mountains.

Photo by Hannah Wright on Unsplash
DAY 19
Lake Mou Waho Nature Experience

Boat across Lake Wanaka to find a nature sanctuary on a small island

Today you will meet at 9am at the Wanaka Marina to discover the hidden gem of Lake Mou Waho, a secluded island within a lake. Cruise across turquoise waters and hike to the island’s peak, rewarded with panoramic vistas. Encounter the unique “Arethusa” waterhole and native birdlife. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this untouched paradise, leaving you awe-inspired and connected with nature’s wonders. It’s an adventure you won’t want to miss.

Day trip to Lake Mou Waho
DAY 20
Travel to Mt Cook

Travel through Mackenzie Country and over the Lindis Pass.

Embark on a scenic journey from Wanaka to Mount Cook Village, venturing through the mesmerizing Lindis Pass. Drive along winding roads that reveal breathtaking vistas of rolling hills and tussock-covered landscapes. As you traverse the Lindis Pass, be captivated by the rugged beauty and dramatic alpine scenery. Witness the transition from lush valleys to snow-capped peaks as you approach Mount Cook Village. Prepare to be enchanted by the majestic presence of New Zealand’s highest mountain, surrounded by awe-inspiring glaciers and pristine alpine beauty.

  • img

    2 nights at The Hermitage

  • img

    Approximate Distance: 206 km

  • img

    Total Driving Time: 2 hours 30 mins

Lindis Pass
DAY 21
Tasman Glacier

Explore the Tasman Glacier by Boat

Set sail on a purpose-built boat and navigate the serene waters of Tasman Lake, surrounded by towering icebergs and the mighty Tasman Glacier. Marvel at the surreal beauty of the floating ice formations as your knowledgeable guide shares insights about the glacier’s formation and its impact on the surrounding environment. This immersive experience offers a unique opportunity to witness the grandeur of nature up close, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Iceburg up close at Tasman Glacier Terminal Lake
DAY 22
Christchurch

Return to Christchurch

Embark on a picturesque drive from Mount Cook National Park, passing through the stunning town of Tekapo, as you make your way to the vibrant city of Christchurch. Journey through winding roads surrounded by majestic mountains, turquoise lakes, and golden tussock fields. Pause at Lake Tekapo, known for its iconic Church of the Good Shepherd and breathtaking views. Continue your drive, marveling at the changing landscapes as you approach Christchurch. Arrive in this vibrant city, where a blend of modern architecture as the city was largely completely rebuild following the 2011 earthquakes.

  • img

    1 night at The George

  • img

    Approximate Distance: 330km

  • img

    Total Driving Time: 4 hours

DAY 23
Welcome to Cairns

Fly to Cairns and transfer to Port Douglas

Embark on a seamless journey from Christchurch to Cairns, where tropical paradise awaits. Fly to Cairns and immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of this tropical city. From there, transfer to the idyllic coastal town of Port Douglas, known for its pristine beaches and lush rainforests. Spend three blissful nights surrounded by the wonders of Tropical North Queensland.

Port Douglas
DAY 24
Cape Tribulation

Day trip through the Daintree Rainforest

Set off on a scenic journey through the ancient Daintree Rainforest, a World Heritage-listed site teeming with biodiversity. Experience the thrill of crossing the Daintree River on a cable ferry and explore the pristine Cape Tribulation Beach, where the rainforest meets the reef. Engage in an informative guided tour, learning about the region’s rich Indigenous heritage and the unique flora and fauna that call this place home. Enjoy a delicious picnic lunch amidst the natural beauty of the rainforest before heading back to Port Douglas, with memories of an enriching and captivating adventure that will last a lifetime.

Waterfall in the Daintree Rainforest
DAY 25
Great Barrier Reef

Full Day Sailing Lowe Isles

Today take part in a full-day sailing adventure to the Low Isles, immersing yourself in the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. Board a luxurious sailing vessel and set sail to this pristine coral cay. Feel the ocean breeze as you cruise through turquoise waters, surrounded by breathtaking views. Arrive at the Low Isles, where you can snorkel in crystal-clear waters teeming with vibrant marine life. Dive into a world of colorful coral gardens, encountering tropical fish, turtles, and rays. After snorkeling, explore the island, relax on white sandy beaches, or take a guided nature walk to learn about the reef’s ecosystem. Indulge in a delicious buffet lunch onboard, prepared with fresh local ingredients. This full-day sailing and snorkeling experience offers an unforgettable encounter with one of the world’s most remarkable natural wonders, the Great Barrier Reef.

Low Isle Sailing
DAY 26
Fly to Sydney

Return to Cairns and fly to the dazzling harbour city

Enjoy a leisurely drive through lush rainforests and coastal landscapes as you make your way to Cairns. Once in Cairns, head to the airport and board a flight to Sydney, the vibrant capital of New South Wales. Arriving in Sydney, prepare to be captivated by the iconic landmarks such as the Sydney Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. Immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, explore its diverse neighborhoods, and indulge in world-class dining and shopping experiences.

Manly Harbour restaurant
DAY 27
Explore Sydney Harbour

Using the ferry network explore Sydney followed by an evening dinner harbour cruise

Discover Sydney’s allure by ferry and indulge in a captivating dinner cruise. Hop on a ferry from Circular Quay and glide past iconic landmarks, including the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge. Ascend Sydney Tower for panoramic views or explore the historic Rocks district. Encounter native wildlife at Taronga Zoo. In the afternoon, embark on a luxury dinner cruise and relish exquisite cuisine while admiring Sydney’s illuminated skyline.

Sydney from the water
DAY 28
Blue Mountains High Country Tour

This is a great way to experience the beauty of the Blue Mountains

The Blue Mountains High Country Tour is a full-day excursion from Sydney that takes you to some of the most spectacular natural attractions in the region. You’ll visit Featherdale Wildlife Park, Kings Tableland, Katoomba, and Wentworth Falls, and enjoy stunning views of the Jamison Valley, the Three Sisters, and Wentworth Falls. This is a great way to experience the beauty of the Blue Mountains and learn about the region’s unique history and geology.

Blue Mountains
DAY 29
The Red Centre

Fly to Uluru

Today check out and fly from Sydney to Uluru. Upon arrival in Uluru, be greeted by the stunning red rock formation and the vast desert landscape. Explore the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, learn about the Aboriginal culture, and experience the unique beauty of this iconic Australian destination.

Uluru
DAY 30
Uluru Trek and Sunrise

By evening explore the desert sky with the Field of Light Experience

Start your day early with an Uluru Trek at Sunrise. Witness the magical sight of Uluru glowing in the early morning light. After the trek, enjoy a delicious breakfast at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, visit the Field of Light, a stunning installation of thousands of illuminated orbs. End your day with a relaxing dinner at a hotel or restaurant.

Uluru Field of Light Experience
DAY 31
Return to Sydney

Spend a day exploring the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, marveling at the stunning red rock formations and the vast desert landscape. In the evening, catch a flight back to Sydney, where you can enjoy a relaxing night in the city.

Here are some additional details about each activity:

  • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park: This park is home to Uluru, Kata Tjuta, and other stunning rock formations. There are many activities to enjoy in the park, including hiking, camping, and Aboriginal cultural tours.
  • Sydney: This vibrant city is home to world-class beaches, museums, and restaurants. There is something for everyone in Sydney, from exploring the city’s history to relaxing on Bondi Beach.
Kata Tjuta sunrise glow
DAY 32-36
Fly to Nadi Fiji

Transfer to Tokoriki Island Resort

Fly from Sydney to Nadi, Fiji, on a direct flight that takes about 3 hours and 55 minutes. Upon arrival in Nadi, take a water taxi to Tokoriki Island Resort, which takes about 20 minutes. Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear water, or go snorkeling and see the amazing marine life. Tokoriki Island Resort is a beautiful tropical paradise, and it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

DAY 37
Depart Fiji

Today return to Viti Levu and the airport at Nadi for your onward flight

On the concluding day of this 37-day sojourn spanning Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, return to  Nadi Airport. Reflect on the varied landscapes, vibrant cultures, and indelible moments, then bid adieu to this enchanting expedition. With hearts brimming with memories, marking the end of an extraordinary odyssey seamlessly blending the allure of three remarkable nations.

Michelle Srzich - Travel Designer
Michelle, OUR ABSOLUTE TRAVEL DESIGNER SAYS: “My love of travel is often centred around where the best food and wine is - so it is my absolute pleasure to design this trip around the best that New Zealand has to offer. With 3 weeks to enjoy, the pace of travel is easy going as well as including the must see and do experiences.”

Ready to find out more? Talk to one of our friendly travel designers about his tour. We guarantee you it will be the experience of a lifetime!

ENQUIRE

Make this itinerary yours

Like what you see? Contact us today to find out more about our exclusive itineraries. Each Absolute tour is tailored to who you are and what you want to do.

    37 Day New Zealand, Australia & Fiji

    Discover the South Pacific in Style: An extraordinary 5-week luxury road trip


    ENQUIRE
    img
    Itinerary map
    VIEW LARGER MAP
    Share this tour
    • img
    • img
    • img
    Our Absolute Travel
    Designer Says:

    Our team has access to the most unique accommodation, superb activities, and flight specials. Contact us for a personalised experience.

    Curious about travel?

    Inspiring travel itineraries and expert advice delivered to your inbox.

    START PLANNING
    img